How to Layer Hair Products for Every Hair Type

Publish date: 2024-05-08

You may have mastered the art of layering skincare, but what about haircare products? Sure, we all know that conditioner comes after shampoo, however, when exactly should you be applying heat protectants, smoothing creams, and hair oils? To find out more, we reached out to expert hairstylists. Not only did they let us in on the correct order to apply your hair care products but they also shared which products wield best results for your specific hair type and texture.

Keep scrolling for our expert-approved guide to layering hair products.

Step One: Shampoo, Conditioner, and Mask

Your haircare routine begins in your shower. Start by using a shampoo and conditioner that cater to your hair type. For example, if you have curly hair, use a formula that will boost curl definition. The same goes for your hair conditions and goals. Those with colored hair should use a shampoo and conditioner that keeps their dye looking fresh, like a purple or blue set.

If you want to take your in-shower haircare routine a step further, use a hair mask after your conditioner to give your strands a deep treatment.

Step Two: Leave-In Conditioner, Detangling Spray, and Heat Protectant

All hair types, from thick and curly to fine and straight, should begin their post-shower routine with a leave-in conditioner and detangling spray to prevent breakage and boost hair nourishment. If you blow dry your hair, always apply a heat protectant before you get started.

"In terms of order, leave-in conditioner is always the first product to add as it acts as the foundation for your hair," explains Michelle O'Connor, a celebrity hairstylist and global artistic director for Matrix. She adds that many leave-ins double as a heat protectant, so you can skip that step if your formula has heat and UV protection in it.

While all hair types can benefit from a leave-in, there is a difference in how they should apply it. "People with straight hair types should apply [leave-in] on clean, towel-dried hair, whereas those with curly hair types should apply on clean, wet hair," says Justin Toves-Vincillone, a professional hairstylist and Authentic Beauty Concept Advocate. He adds that doing so will ensure maximum absorption of the product.

Step Three: Mousse, Cream, and Gel

For the right styling product, consider your hair type and how you plan on wearing it. If your hair is thick and you wear it smooth, use a blow dry cream advises Tippi Shorter, a L'Oréal Professionnel colorist and Mizani global director. However, those with curly or kinky hair who want to enhance their texture should opt to use a curl styler such as a gel. "This will provide the right hold for your curls," says O'Conner. Lastly, if your hair is fine and needs a boost of volume, Shorter says to use a styling mousse as it'll add volume and hold for those with fine and straight hair.

Step Four: Oils and Serums

In the same way that facial oil works to seal in moisture, hair oil does the same. O'Conner explains that adding one in at the end of your routine will not only nourish the hair but will add shine, too. While this is ideal for drier hair types, keep in mind that those with straight, fine hair should use oils prior to shampooing so as not to weigh hair down.

As for hair serums, any hair type and texture can benefit from using them. They're ace at protecting hair, defining curls, smoothing frizz, and generally, keeping hair strong and healthy.

Step Five: Styling Sprays

Wrap up your routine by using your favorite dry texture spray, hair sprays, and shine sprays — just make sure your hair is dry so the product can stick. "It'll add volume, texture, and hold for finer hair types, and it'll add another reinforcement of moisture to curly hair types," explains Shorter.

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